Frequently Asked Questions

+

What is The Imagination Machine?

There is only ONE Imagination Machine! "IM" is a professional children’s theatre company which travels to approximately 400 schools per year. With more than a 30-year history of inspiring and celebrating children's creative writing throughout California, The Imagination Machine has three full-length assemblies to get your students excited about writing!

+

What programs do you offer?

Our "Who What Where" and "Write Away" workshop style assemblies feature interactive games which focus on grade-level specific Common Core standards. Using our signature brand of comedy and audience participation, we'll get your students fired up to write!

In our "Writing Show" we celebrate YOUR STUDENTS' efforts by performing their own original stories during an assembly for the entire school. Students whose stories are performed will receive a Certificate of Writing Achievement at the end of the assembly. THE BEST PART ABOUT "THE WRITING SHOW" - EACH SCHOOL SEES ONLY STORIES WRITTEN BY THEIR OWN STUDENTS!!!

+

How many stories do you perform in a "Writing Show?"

We encourage EVERY grade level to participate, and ask that teachers submit at least ten stories per class. After our company members read through every story, we will choose between 8-10 stories to be performed at your school.

+

How far in advance do you need the stories?

For our "Writing Show", stories need to be mailed (postmarked) approximately 6 weeks prior to assemblies. Please do not rely upon school district mail for delivery.

+

Do spelling, punctuation and grammar matter in submissions?

NO! We understand that some students struggle, and we don't want that to hinder their creativity. Our hope is to inspire children’s imaginations, and let them know that pencil and paper are nothing to fear. We NEVER “grade” stories on the mechanics of writing, but choose stories which will “translate well”, and leap to life on stage. (For more specific guidelines, please refer to our “Guidelines for Teachers” page.)

+

How long is the show?

Each of our assemblies run approximately 45 minutes. Should you require more than one performance, it is recommended you leave about 15 minutes between shows to facilitate easier audience turn-over.

+

Do you need a stage?

Not necessarily. We do require an indoor performance space, but it is not unusual for us to perform in a library or cafeteria. We simply need about 12’x20’ area of actual performance space and access to ac power.

+

What is the cost?

For assembly prices, please select the "Shows" tab, and click on the specific program of interest on this website. Pricing varies upon the number of assemblies required for your individual school site. (This depends on your student population and the capacity of your indoor performance space.) Travel and wait fees may apply. Please contact our offices for specifics.

+

Do you tour outside of Southern California?

YES!The Imagination Machine has expanded its touring programs throughout California. Normal performance fees apply. However, contracts will need to cover travel expenses including transportation and room and board for 5 performers, plus transportation of our set and props. (Set, props and performers will travel in one van.) These costs will be divided between the schools booked for the tour. The more schools who book, the more affordable this will be for every school!